Sheldon Keefe Makes a Decision Regarding Matthew Knies for Game Five
Leafs Coach Sheldon Keefe has made a big decision regarding rookie forward Matthew Knies.
Knies, who has an assist in 3 games for Toronto this playoff series vs Tampa, is confirmed to be in for Game 5, after rumors of a potential removal from the lineup following the expected return of Forward Michael Bunting.
Knies has become a quick favorite for the Leafs, coming off a successful NCAA season for Minnesota, topped off with a Hobey Baker nomination, and played 3 games for Toronto in the regular season.
With Knies confirmed in the lineup for the Leafs potential series win in Game 5 back home in Toronto, Knies will be expected to play a part in Toronto's attempts to eliminate Tampa in 5.
Bunting, who is coming off a three-game suspension following an illegal check to the head of Lightning Defenseman Erik Cernak, is expected to return for Game 5, but Keefe has not made clear who will be out of the lineup to replace Bunting, or if any changes will happen to the lineup.
Toronto will look to finally make it past the first round of the NHL Playoffs since 2004, and Sheldon Keefe has made clear that attempt will involve Matthew Knies in a game with big expectations.
| POLL | ||
Will the Maple Leafs Make it past the first round this playoffs? | ||
| Yes | 892 | 92.4 % |
| No | 73 | 7.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
